The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that commuters can now buy QR code-based paper tickets for travel on all its lines, as it moves towards a more transparent and human intervention-free mechanism. This development also marks the gradual phasing out of physical tokens.
Commuters can now buy QR code-based paper tickets from the station counter, in addition to the traditional token. The DMRC has upgraded its automatic fare collection (AFC) gates and customer care counters to support the new feature, according to a senior official.
The move towards QR code-based paper tickets is in line with the DMRC’s push towards digitalisation and reducing human intervention, making the process more streamlined and efficient. The DMRC has been actively working towards introducing more cashless and contactless payment methods to make the metro travel experience more convenient for passengers.
The new system is expected to benefit regular commuters who often face long queues and delays in purchasing physical tokens. With the QR code-based paper tickets, they can quickly purchase and enter the metro station without the need for physical tokens.
The DMRC also expects the new system to lead to a reduction in the use of physical tokens, which can help in reducing the metro’s carbon footprint. It is also expected to reduce the cost and time involved in printing and distributing physical tokens, which can be a significant expense for the DMRC.
The QR code-based paper tickets will provide commuters with a hassle-free travel experience, reducing the need for physical contact and the risk of spreading infections. This is especially important in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, where contactless and cashless payment methods are encouraged to minimise the risk of transmission.
